"Zoom H4n"

Studio Sound From This Versatile Zoom H4n

Studio Sound From This Versatile Zoom H4n

The Zoom H4n portable recorder makes it easy to capture 4-track studio-grade recordings - anywhere. This next-generation recorder from Zoom is loaded with all the features you need, as well as a bunch of extras, so you'll be ready for nearly any recording situation - the H4n has two onboard stereo condenser microphones, inputs for your own microphones, 50 built-in DSP effects, handy practice tools, and even a built-in speaker. You'll also love the unique Stamina Mode, which doubles your battery life, so you have nearly 11 hours of untethered recording time with your H4n.

Zoom H4n Portable Recorder at a Glance

Built-in stereo microphones capture a perfect stereo image

Two mic/hi-Z inputs let you integrate your gear

Supports recording four tracks at a time

Record, overdub, and mix your projects in MTR mode

Built-in reference speaker for checking your recordings

Records to portable and high-capacity SD/SDHC media

Auto-record and Pre-record features ensure sure you never miss a moment

Practice effectively with the built-in phrase trainer

Shine up your recordings with 50 onboard DSP effects

Stamina mode doubles your battery life

USB connection for easy file transfer

Zoom H4n Summary of Recorder Function

Built-in stereo microphones capture a perfect stereo image Zoom's H4n features two high-quality stereo condenser microphones, arranged in an X/Y pattern. Not only can you just "point and shoot" to capture audio, but because of the special pattern, you'll automatically capture with exceptionally natural depth and accurate imaging. Plus, you can rotate the microphones into two different positions - one that's perfect for up-close miking, and another that sounds amazing when you want to capture a wide sound field, such as a live band performance.

Two mic/line inputs let you integrate your gear In addition to the H4n's two onboard stereo condenser microphones, you can bring your own gear into service via two onboard mic/hi-Z combination inputs. Plug in two of your favorite microphones - even condensers, as the H4n supplies phantom power - and double your recording possibilities. There's even a mid-side stereo decoder, so you can take advantage of the classic microphone setup. Or, you can always plug in a guitar or bass for fast direct recording.

Supports recording four tracks at a time The Zoom H4n is the first portable handheld recorder to support simultaneous 4-track recording, giving you even more recording options. In its 4-track mode, for example, you can use the onboard microphones to get a room mix while you send in a close-miked stereo mix, or a stereo feed from the mixer - it's like having an audio interface with you, only you're not tethered to a computer and a bunch of extra gear.

Record, overdub, and mix your projects in multi-track studio mode The H4n is a complete all-in-one music recording and production tool, thanks to its MTR (multi-track studio) mode. In MTR mode, you can record at CD quality 16-bit/44.1kHz resolution, recording two tracks simultaneously and playing back four tracks at once. In the mode, you can take advantage of the H4n's massive collection of DSP effects, including classic guitar amp models, so you can sketch out songs and dial in your tone. From there, you can adjust level and panning individually for each track using the built-in mixer - it's perfect for getting a great mix with the band, if inspiration strikes on a whim.

Built-in reference speaker for checking your recordings With its built-in speaker, the Zoom H4n makes it easy for you to quickly play back audio - whether that's to check recording levels, or to listen back to a musical idea the moment after you recorded it. No more hunting for your headphones just to play a track.

Records to portable and high-capacity SD/SDHC media The Zoom H4n can tackle your long recording session needs, thanks to its use of compact SD and high-density SDHC media cards. Just pop in a 32GB card, and you'll be ready to record for more than 15 hours at high quality 24-bit/96kHz! Or, record at MP3 format and capture audio for more than 550 hours on just one card - that's more than three weeks of continuous recording!

Auto-record and Pre-record features ensure sure you never miss a moment In critical recording sessions, sometimes the audio starts before you have time to push record - meaning you miss out on the first word or two, or the first note or two. And that's enough to take an otherwise high-quality recording down a notch or two. But with the H4n, you won't have to worry about that. Not only does it feature a pre-record feature that capture for up to two seconds before you hit the record button, the H4n also features a special auto-record feature. With it, you can define a level threshold - whenever the H4n senses audio above the threshold, it will instantly start recording. That way, when the music starts, your recording starts too. Just sit back and listen.

Practice effectively with the built-in phrase trainer The Zoom H4n is a great tool for recording any time, any place. But, it's also designed to help you practice more effectively. Its built-in phrase trainer can help you learn songs, as it allows you to slow down or speed up play back from 50% to 150%, while maintaining pitch - it's a great way to slow down a difficult solo until you've mastered it part by part. The H4n also features a center-cancel function, which lets you sing karaoke-style over the top of track. You can even change pitch without changing playback speed, so you can switch the "karaoke" track into a key that sounds better for your voice, then work on singing or playing along with it. The H4n's other handy tools include an onboard tuner and a built-in metronome.

Shine up your recordings with 50 onboard DSP effects The H4n is packed with 50 studio-quality DSP effects, so you can shine up your recorded audio tracks or track with a more inspiring tone. Onboard effects include compression, chorus, reverb, and delay. Plus, there are models of classic guitar amplifiers onboard, so you can plug straight in and develop your sound - without firing up the amp.

Stamina mode doubles your battery life The Zoom H4n's unique stamina mode extends your battery life up to nearly 11 hours in 16-bit/44.1kHz linear PCM format. It's perfect for intense recording sessions during all-day band practices, or for when you're out in the field, away from power.

USB connection for easy file transfer Take the tracks you've recorded on your Zoom H4n and easily bring them into your computer for editing, polishing, and eventually publishing. All you need to do is connect a USB cable from the H4n to your computer - and you can instantly e-mail your tracks, play them back, transfer them to your iPod, or put them into a folder for archiving.

Zoom H4n Recorder Features

Built-in X/Y stereo mics record at either 90 degrees or 120 degrees

Four channel simultaneous recording using built-in and external mics

Digitally controlled, high-quality mic preamp for improved audio quality

Large 1.9-Inch LCD screen and improved user interface for easy operation

24-bit/96kHz Linear PCM recording for high-quality recording

Supports MP3 recording for increased recording time

Built-in reference speaker to check recordings

Shock resistant rubberized body for improved chassis protection

Broadcast Wave Format (BWF) compatible time stamp and track marker

Records on SD/SDHC media of up to 32GB for maximum recording time

Auto-record and pre-record feature so you never miss a moment

Variable speed playback capability for "phrase training"

Stamina mode enables nearly 11 hours of continuous battery life

Onboard mid-side matrix decoder for additional miking possibilities

Built-in mounting joint for tripod and mic stand mounting

USB 2.0 port for faster file transfer

XLR inputs with phantom power allow recording with any mic

Supports plug-in power type external mics

Hi-Z Inputs for recording guitar and bass

Studio effects onboard, including guitar and bass amp modeling

USB audio interface capability

Low-cut filter to reduce noise

Normalizing and file splitting functions

Mono mix function

Onboard tuner and metronome

Includes 1 GB SD card, wind screen, mic clip adapter, AC adapter, USB cable, protective case, and Cubase LE recording software

Optional remote control (RC4) available

Easily Tailor the Microphones to the Source Whether you want to record an instrument up close or capture a full band from a distance, you'll be ready with the H4n. Just rotate its custom-designed XY stereo condenser microphones from 90-degree (standard) to 120-degree (wide-angle) recording patterns, to tackle a variety of recording situations.

Record Four Tracks at a Time
The H4n lets you record four tracks at once — a first in portable recorder technology! That means you'll have everything you need to tackle large-scale recording projects, with just the H4n in tow.

Plug Your Gear into Two Mic/Line Inputs
The H4n gives you a lot of flexibility in recording setups. At the same time you record with its two onboard microphones, you can record via its two phantom-powered hi-Z/line inputs — four tracks at once!

Auto-Record Feature Ensures You Capture the Moment When it comes to capturing important audio, you can let the H4n's Auto-Recording feature do all the work. Once it senses audio above a threshold you've designated, it will instantly start recording.

Records to Compact and Affordable SD Media
In your wallet, you can easily carry enough SD cards to record a week's worth of audio on your H4n. Plus, the cards are 100% reusable, so you can easily transfer your files to your computer, then get back out recording. The H4n can handle SD and SDHC memory cards up to 32GB, allowing for up to 15 hours of 24-bit/96kHz recording.

And It’s a USB Audio Interface!
The H4n also functions as a USB audio interface, letting you record directly to either a Mac or a PC. Use your favorite recording software or the bundled Cubase LE 4 from Steinberg, and you can start to produce and edit your recording, right out of the box.

World-class recording for everyone.

Representing the next level of professional recording performance, the H4n delivers superior audio quality and dramatically improves the user experience. Zoom’s most sophisticated handheld recorder to date will amaze, no matter the application.

Unique X/Y mic design captures perfect stereo images

The H4n’s onboard X/Y stereo condenser mics are arranged with the right and left mics on the same axis. This design ensures that the mics are always equidistant from the sound source for perfect localization with no phase shifting. Frequency response remains uniform throughout your recording. The result is great stereo recording with natural depth and accurate imaging every time.

The mics also adjust for variable recording patterns at either 90° or 120°. Our unique design lets you rotate each mic capsule from 90° (standard) to 120° (wide-angle) stereo for the ultimate versatility in any recording situation.

Why four channels are better than two.

Everyone knows that proper miking is essential to making a great recording. The H4n is the only handheld recorder that allows you to record on four channels simultaneously by using its onboard mics with either external mics or direct inputs. You can then use its built-in mixer to blend the channels for perfectly balanced recordings. Now your recordings can be richer than ever before.

Or, to get a great recording of a live performance, use the H4n’s onboard mics to get a room mix while simultaneously recording a stereo mix from the mixing board for a live recording that is easily one of the best you’ve ever heard.

And for media and filmmakers, the H4n makes it easy to record “high definition” audio at 24-bit/48kHz with booms, handhelds or lavaliers while gathering atmospheric audio with the onboard mics. The H4n also supports Broadcast Wave Format (BWF) so your recorded files carry time stamp information. You can even set markers (cue points) during recording or playback.

For even more versatility, the H4n also features a Mid-Side stereo decoder that allows you to utilize this classic microphone setup. The H4n converts the mid and side channels into a conventional stereo (L/R) signal for even more versatility… and it’s only found on the H4n.

It’s all in the preamp…

The H4n’s new mics and four channel recording ability, in combination with our new, digitally controlled, high-quality preamplifier renders audio so precise, you’ll sound like you recorded in a world-class studio. And this new preamp means you can make recording level adjustments on the fly. Of course, an automatic level setting function is also built-in to optimize your levels as quickly as the situation requires.

High resolution, 24-bit/96kHz linear PCM recording

Choose up to 24-bit/96-kHz linear PCM WAV files for audio resolution that surpasses DVD quality. Or, when maximum recording time with smaller file sizes is desired, select a variety of MP3 formats from 320 kbps down to 48 kpbs to produce smaller files suitable for web or e-mail distribution.

Secure your digital memories on SD and SDHC cards

The H4n uses compact SD or high-capacity SDHC memory cards of up to 32GB for over 15 hours of recording time at 24-bit/96kHz. Or, using MP3 format at 128 kpbs, get over 550 hours of recording time on one card!

Please check our confirmed list of approved SD and SDHC cards before purchasing.

It’s about the music.

For musicians and songwriters, the H4n is also a user-friendly, multi-track studio (MTR) that records at CD quality, 16-bit/44.1kHz resolution. Plug in your guitar or bass and use the H4n’s classic amp models to inspire your creativity and find tone perfection during your recording sessions.

The MTR mode allows simultaneous 2-track recording and 4-track playback. With this feature, you can sketch songs by overdubbing vocals and instruments with ease. Level and panning can be adjusted individually for each track on the built-in mixer, and you can even do a mixdown right on the H4n. Perfect for pre-production sessions with the band.

The H4n offers a choice of 50 studio-quality DSP effects including compressor, chorus, delay, and reverb. These onboard studio effects, along with its tuner and metronome make the H4n very musician friendly.

The H4n’s phrase trainer capability makes learning new songs easy with an adjustable playback feature that changes the speed from 50 to 150 percent, while maintaining pitch. Or use its center cancel feature to suppress audio that is recorded with center imaging. And because the H4n lets you alter pitch without changing playback speed, you can choose source material, suppress the center audio and use it as a backing track while recording a vocal or guitar track.

And it’s a USB audio interface!

The H4n also functions as a USB audio interface, letting you record directly to either a Mac or PC. Use your favorite recording software or the bundled Cubase LE 4 from Steinberg, so you can start to produce and edit your recording right out of the box.

Everyone likes surprises… just not while you’re recording.

You can set your H4n to automatically record whenever sound above a designated level is detected. This ensures that you capture everything of importance while minimizing blank sections such as when recording a conference or lecture. The H4n can also be set to continuously record the most recent two seconds of audio in memory. Now, you’ll never miss the beginning of anything you want to record, even if it begins suddenly.

Brains and a body, too.

The H4n has a new rubberized, shock resistant chassis that improves durability while reducing handling noise. A large, 1.9 inch LCD screen with backlit graphic display shows all the tracking information at a glance and makes it easy to navigate the functions of the unit. The H4n even has a built-in reference speaker to let you check recordings without earphones.

Faster file transfer

The H4n is now a USB 2.0 Hi-Speed device, meaning that files can be transferred to your computer at the highest rate available. Then use recording software for editing, create your own original CDs, post your recordings on your myspace page or send out your recordings by e-mail… the possibilities are endless.

Stamina mode extends battery life to 11 hours

For situations where you require maximized, continuous recording operation you can select stamina mode that effectively doubles battery life, letting you record continuously for approximately 11 hours in 16-bit/44.1kHz linear PCM format.

Fully loaded.

A 1 GB SD card, windscreen, mic clip adapter, AC adapter, USB cable, protective case and Cubase LE recording software are included with your H4n. The windscreen is especially helpful to reduce wind noise. The mic clip adapter works perfectly when attaching the unit to a standard mic stand, or you can use the built-in tripod mount with a standard camera tripod.

Go remote with the RC4

An optional remote control (RC4) gives you access to a range of functions including recording start, play, stop, fast forward/reverse, recording level adjustment, and input source switching. It is also useful for preventing any handling noise.

The H4n is the epitome of sophistication made simple. For anyone who needs professional recording capability with extraordinary versatility, the H4n will give you the ability to capture everything with the clarity and resolution previously found only in the world’s finest recording studios. You’ll be amazed at how easy it is to make world-class recordings, wherever you are in the world.

Features:

• Built-in X/Y stereo mics record at either 90° or 120°

• Four channel simultaneous recording using built-in and external mics

• Digitally controlled, high-quality mic preamp for improved audio quality

• Large 1.9-Inch LCD screen and improved user interface for easy operation

• 24bit/96kHz Linear PCM recording for pristine recording

• MP3 recording for increased recording time

• Built-in reference speaker to check recordings

• Shock resistant rubberized body for improved chassis protection

• Broadcast Wave Format (BWF) compatible time stamp and track marker

• Records on SD/SDHC media of up to 32GB for maximum recording time

• Auto-record and pre-record feature so you never miss a moment

• Variable speed playback capability for “phrase training”

• Stamina mode enables 10 hours of continuous battery life

• Onboard mid-side matrix decoder for additional miking possibilities

• Built-in mounting joint for tripod and mic stand mounting

• USB 2.0 port for faster file transfer

• XLR inputs with phantom power allow recording with any mic

• Supports plug-in power type external mics

• Hi-Z Inputs for recording guitar and bass

• Studio effects onboard, including guitar and bass amp modeling

• USB audio interface capability

• Low-cut filter to reduce noise

• Normalizing and file splitting functions

• Mono mix function

• Onboard tuner and metronome

• Includes 1 GB SD card, wind screen, mic clip adapter, AC adapter, USB cable, protective case and Cubase LE recording software

• Optional remote control (RC4) available

90° (standard)

120° (wide-angle) stereo

Built-in Microphone Frequency Response

H4n Handy Recorder Features at a Glance

The H4n Handy Recorder is the ultimate in professional, portable recording. A large 1.9-inch, backlit display features recording levels, file format, time elapsed, file name, remaining battery life and recording time. Optional features such as low cut filter, compressor/limiter and phantom power are also shown when utilized. LEDs indicate Stereo, 4-Channel or MTR mode.

Transport controls include one button recording, playback and pause, forward and rewind buttons. You also have greater control over functions such as Folder, File, Speed or Format selection with the Short Cut/Track Select keys. These keys double as track selectors with the Multi-Track Recorder mode.

On right side of the H4n, the Jog Dial and Menu Key are positioned together for easy navigation. Push the Menu Key to enter the menu and the Jog Dial to navigate through the plentiful features. Use the record level buttons to toggle your levels up or down, and replace your SDHC card by folding down the rubberized door.

The left side of the H4n contains a jack for the RC4 remote control, Phone/Line Output for monitoring and playback. Playback Volume, USB 2.0 interface, Power On and Hold.

Use the USB 2.0 Hi-Speed Interface to move your files to a PC or Mac for storage, editing or playback. And you can even use the H4n as a USB interface and record directly to your favorite digital audio software or the supplied Cubase LE software.

On the back, you’ll find a reference speaker, external mic input for plug-in power type mics and a tripod mount. Remove the battery cover to turn on Stamina Mode. There is also mount for a carry strap. On the bottom of the H4n, you’ll find the combination XLR/Phone inputs and the AC power input is located here as well.

Our most sophisticated recorder, the H4n is also incredibly easy to navigate and setup for the most diverse recording situations you could ever encounter. Now you can capture every sonic detail with the kind of quality and precision usually found in the world’s finest recording studios.

Click Here For Zoom H4 Operation Manual (2.39 MB PDF).

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